Wireless MEMS left atrial pressure sensor

Abstract

Systems for monitoring left atrial pressure using implantable cardiac monitoring devices and, more specifically, to a left atrial pressure sensor implanted through a septal wall are presented herein.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]Aspects of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods related to implantable cardiac monitoring devices and, more specifically, to a left atrial pressure sensor implanted through a septal wall.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Monitoring the left atrial pressure (LAP) of heart failure patients is an effective method of assessing and managing a patient's heart failure progression. Timely interventions including medication taken as immediately as possible after an increase in LAP would more effectively treat a patient and reduce unnecessary hospitalization. To date, devices and approaches to monitor surrogates of LAP have encountered significant technical challenges.[0003]Hemodynamic monitoring systems using other measurements as a surrogate for direct measurement of LAP have been tested in clinical trials with mixed results. Lead-based pressure sensors situated in the right ventricle outflow tract (RVOT) were relatively ineffective in managing hea...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent discusses a new wireless MEMS LAP sensor that can be placed in the left atrium of the heart to provide clinicians with valuable information on heart function. The sensor is designed to eliminate negative perceptions associated with traditional leads and devices, and can be safely placed. The method also includes steps to expose the sensor, secure it in place, and remove the catheter and sheath from the patient. The technical effects include improved monitoring of heart function and reduced risk for infections and complications.

Problems solved by technology

To date, devices and approaches to monitor surrogates of LAP have encountered significant technical challenges.

Lead-based pressure sensors situated in the right ventricle outflow tract (RVOT) were relatively ineffective in managing heart failure and were additionally vulnerable to lead-related reliability issues.

Wireless MEMS pressure sensors situated in the pulmonary artery are ill-suited for at least a subpopulation of patients presenting with heart failure.

For example, the assessment of LAP using surrogate measurements within the pulmonary artery may not be suitable for patients suffering from pulmonary hypertension or other pulmonary conditions.

However, silicone-based leads used in other medical devices have exhibited a vulnerability to reliability-related performance degradation.

In addition, obtaining LAP measurements using the silicone lead-based LAP sensor may present several challenges that may be exacerbated by the routing of the leads necessary for the operation of the pressure sensor.

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